Horticulture Apprentice

University of York; York and North Yorkshire; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Full time

Job summary

University of York invites applications for an Apprentice Gardener/Groundsperson within the Grounds Maintenance Team of Facilities Management and Campus Services. The role supports an established team while you undertake Level 2 Horticulture and Landscape Operative training, with block-release at Askham Bryan College.

You will gain practical grounds maintenance experience, complete Maths and English functional skills if needed, and work toward completing apprenticeship requirements to support

Qualifications

• GCSE Maths and English or equivalent qualification or experience.
• Completion of training partner’s entry requirements and assessment.
• Able to work as a member of a team.
• Able to complete work tasks to deadlines and to a specified standard.
• Evidence of upholding our behaviours as specified in the job description.

Skills

Teamwork

Time management

Safety awareness

Willingness to learn

Education

GCSE Maths and English or equivalent

Acceptance onto training partner's entry requirements

Job description

Department

This role is part of the Grounds Maintenance Team within Facilities Management and Campus Services, a large directorate dedicated to creating a vibrant, safe and inspiring University environment.

Our primary goal is to provide services and facilities that meet the needs both of the University and the broader community, as well as support the University's strategic objectives and commitment to public good by creating a stimulating learning, living and working environment.

About the Role

Following the success of our Apprenticeship scheme, we are looking to appoint an Apprentice Gardener/Groundsperson.

During this training role you will support an established team in completing activities associated with all aspects of grounds maintenance. In addition you will attend Askham Bryan College where further training will be delivered in a 'block release' manner.

You will work to successfully complete the Level 2 Horticulture and Landscape Operative Apprenticeship Standard. As part of your course, you will also need to attain Functional skills level 2 in Maths and English unless you already have grade 4 (C) or above GCSEs in these subjects.

You can view the University grounds and areas of the Grounds & Maintenance Team works here.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• GCSE Maths and English, or equivalent qualification or experience
• Successful completion of the training partner’s entry requirements and assessment
• Able to work as a member of a team
• Able to complete work tasks to deadlines and to a specified standard
• Evidence of upholding our behaviours as specified in the job description.

Interview date: Tuesday 8th October 2026

For informal enquiries: contact Trevor Boddison by email on [e-mail]